Why One Data Science Student Chose MOOCs Over a Top University Program

Why One Data Science Student Chose MOOCs Over a Top University Program

Photo: iStockphotoDavid Venturi had enrolled in a top computer science program to pursue a second bachelor’s degree at the University of Toronto—which would have cost him about US $30,000 to complete. A few months before the program started, a friend he was visiting told him about free MOOCs (massive open online courses). Venturi took a few MOOCs over the summer, and then dropped out of the university program after just two weeks to get what he says is an even better education online. Since dropping out of the university last September, he has been sharing his enthusiasm for MOOCs via social media and on his blog and personal website. Followers have contacted him to say he has inspired them, and to seek guidance on how to pursue their own educational goals.…